Medical Information

Lymphedema is an obvious concern and for this reason compression sleeves are strongly recommended for all paddlers. We suggest that these should be worn at every workout. The first portion of each training session emphasizes flexibility and this is followed by specific resistance exercises to develop strength in the upper arm, back and shoulder areas. These activities prepare you for the paddling activities. There is likely a higher risk of developing lymphedema during this initial phase of increased activity, relative to the paddling phase. We cannot emphasize enough, the need to progress in a slow, gradual fashion.

Too rapid an increase in any activity is the main factor in the development of musculoskeletal injury or a change in your lymphedema status. By introducing paddling with low intensity but a progressive fashion, we gradually improve the ability of the upper extremity to do more intense exercise. It is the graduated focus of the program that allows adaptation to this activity. We do have an excellent track record in avoiding lymphedema and there are some very good reasons to believe that a supervised, graded exercise program is an important part of the prevention or treatment of this condition.